Fighting fires is a dangerous and physically demanding job. To make sure that fire fighters are physically able to perform their duties, all applicants must pass a stringent physical fitness test.

Test Structure

The candidate physical ability test is a pass-fail test that requires applicants to traverse an obstacle course that simulates tasks fire fighters commonly perform. Eight stations are 85 feet apart from one another on the course. Test takers may not run between stations. To achieve a passing mark, applicants must complete all tasks within 10 minutes and 20 seconds. During the test, applicants wear a 50-pound vest representing the breathing apparatus and protective clothing of a firefighter.

Stair Climb

The applicant carries a 12.5-pound bundle on each shoulder, representing a hose. He mounts a stair-climbing machine and must climb at a rate of 60 steps per minute for three minutes.

Hose Drag

The hose drag tests an applicant’s ability to maneuver a 200-foot hose around objects while staying stationary. First, the applicant runs with the hose and places it around a drum. The applicant then drops to one knee and pulls the hose until its 50-foot mark crosses the finish line.

Equipment Carry

The applicant retrieves two saws from a tool cabinet and with a saw in each hand walks 75 feet before turning around and returning to the starting position. He then returns the saws to the tool cabinet. He may put the saws down and adjust his grip during this part of the test.

Ladder

The applicant must extend a 24-foot aluminum extension ladder in a hand-over-hand fashion until it's stationary against a wall. He then proceeds to another preplaced ladder and is responsible for extending the fly section until it stops.

Forcible Entry

Using a 10-pound sledgehammer, the applicant hits a mechanized measuring device until a buzzer activates. The event simulates having to break open a locked door or breach a wall.

Search

The applicant crawls through an enclosed 64-foot maze while navigating several obstacles. The event simulates the search and rescue of a victim under poor visibility and unknown obstacles of a fire.

Rescue

The applicant drags a 165-pound mannequin 70 feet along a marked course. He can't release the dummy and may not stop and rest. This part of the test represents rescuing a victim or another fire fighter at a scene.

Ceiling Breach and Pull

Using a special pole, the applicant strikes a weighted, hinged door in a ceiling three times before looping a hook into a measuring device and pulling down five times. He must repeat the sequence four times.

Considerations

Tests are only available at specific facilities, and applicants must register and pay in advance. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and have proper ID to take the test and complete the course in long pants, a hard hat, work gloves and closed-toe shoes. Upon passing the test, you'll receive a license number valid for one year, which you can submit to employers. Each event has strict rules regarding grounds for failure, so be sure to review regulations carefully.

Training Tips

The exam tests cardiopulmonary fitness, strength and endurance. When preparing for the test, focus on exercises to increase flexibility while also improving endurance. Practice aerobic and anaerobic activities, including interval training and running. Also incorporate a full-body workout by adopting circuit training that builds muscle strength. Several books and videos offer training programs for fire-fighter applicants. Many assessment centers also offer orientation sessions, training and walk-through of the course before taking the test.